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Preventing suicide in Idaho: Rock your role and know the warning signs

Completed suicides are statistically rare, but Idaho has some of the highest rates of suicide in the United States, ranking 5th in the nation in 2015. Though rates are high, it’s important to know that recovery from suicidality is the norm. More than 90 percent of people who make attempts never go on to die by suicide. This week is Suicide Prevention Week, so now is a good time to review how you can Rock Your Role, and help someone who may be struggling with thoughts of killing themselves.

What are the risk factors that someone might be thinking about suicide?

Actually, we all should be learning and watching for warning signs. Knowing them can save a life. Warning signs include:

Talking about wanting to die or completing suicide

Looking for a way to kill themselves, by searching online, stockpiling pills, or buying a gun

Isolation and withdrawal

Talking about feeling hopeless or trapped or being a burden to others

Nightmares

Increasing use of drugs or alcohol

Acting anxious or agitated

Behaving recklessly

Increased aggression, anger, or irritability

Change in sleeping habits – either too much sleep or too little

Extreme mood swings

The risk is greater when these signs are new or happen more frequently. It’s also greater if these signs are linked to a painful or stressful event or a loss.

What should you do if you recognize some of these warning signs?

Rock your Role by knowing what to do when you see warning signs. Ask the question directly: Are you thinking about killing yourself or contemplating suicide? Listen well. Do not leave that person alone. Instill hope with statements like, “I care if you live.” You also should do your best to safely restrict this person’s ability to a means of killing themselves, including firearms and drugs. Or you may need to get the person to a mental health provider or the hospital. Don’t hesitate to call 911 if it’s an emergency.

What are some of the local suicide prevention resources we can use?

The most familiar and excellent resource is the Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline, which is available 24/7 at (208)398-4357 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Other resources include the Department of Health and Welfare’s 24-hour regional mental health crisis lines, as well as the Idaho Careline, which is available by dialing 2-1-1 anywhere in Idaho.

Everyone has a role to play in suicide prevention. Rock your Role by watching for signs, asking the question and getting help.

A Closer Look at Your Health airs weekly on KBOI Newsradio in Boise; this is the transcript from the Sept. 5, 2017 program.